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Category: Homebuying

9 Ways to Reduce Stress from Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting milestone for many first-time homebuyers, but it can also be a stressful process. From finding the perfect home to securing financing, there are several steps that can cause anxiety for potential homeowners. However, with the right tips and guidance, you can reduce the stress of home buying and enjoy the excitement of this significant life event. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on reducing the stress of home buying for first-time and seasoned homebuyers.

Educate Yourself on the Home Buying Process

One of the main sources of stress for first-time homebuyers is feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the homebuying process. The best way to combat this is by educating yourself on the process before you begin. Research different neighborhoods and schools, learn the difference between fixed and adjustable rate mortgages, and familiarize yourself with the various fees and costs associated with home buying. By understanding the process, you’ll be able to anticipate potential roadblocks and feel more confident in your decision-making.

Get Pre-Approved for Financing

Financing is one of the most significant factors in the homebuying process. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a better idea of your budget and help you identify homes within your price range. This will also give you an advantage in the competitive housing market, as sellers will take you more seriously if you’ve already been pre-approved. While the mortgage process can be lengthy and tedious, getting pre-approved early on can reduce the stress of uncertainty and provide peace of mind.

Set Realistic Expectations

When you are looking to buy a home, set realistic expectations. Remember that no house is perfect, and there will always be compromises. It is crucial to develop a realistic list of your needs and wants for your ideal home. Your real estate agent can help you narrow down your search, manage your expectations, and find the best properties that meet your criteria.

Focus on Your Priorities

When we daydream about buying a house, we tend to envision a home with lots of amenities like an infinity pool or a big, beautiful garden. While these are great, your purchase decision should be based on priorities. Prioritize the important features that meet your needs, like the number of bedrooms, proximity to your job, schools, and other facilities. Focus on your priorities instead of getting caught up in an elaborate photo of a house that may not meet your needs.

Be Flexible

Being flexible with time is crucial when purchasing a house. Home buying may take longer than anticipated, and sometimes your perfect home may slip away from your hands. Sometimes it’s necessary to compromise on a few things when finding the perfect home. Even if your dream home isn’t available at the moment, don’t give up. Keep checking websites, join online groups, and staying in contact with your agent can help you stay updated with the latest developments.

Take Your Time

Don’t rush the homebuying process. Take your time to research the neighborhoods you’re interested in, and tour properties with your agent. Buying a home can be a significant investment, and rushing the process can lead to regrets later on.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Despite your best efforts to be prepared, unexpected things can still happen. Realize that a few hitches may arise during the homebuying process. However, by maintaining an open mind, flexibility, and a positive attitude, you can get through these situations with less stress and frustration. Be prepared for surprises, delays, and additional costs that can arise.

Take Care of Yourself During the Process

Home buying can be a time-consuming and emotional process, so it’s essential to take care of yourself during this time. Take breaks when needed, prioritize self-care activities like exercise and meditation, and rely on your support system. It’s essential to manage your emotional well-being, so you’re not overwhelmed by the experience. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle any difficulties and enjoy the excitement of finding your dream home.

Trust the Process

Finally, trust the process. While feeling anxious during the homebuying process is natural, remember that you’re not alone. There are many people involved in the transaction, from your real estate agent to your builder to your lender. Everyone is working toward the same goal: to help you find the right home. Trust that the professionals you’ve chosen to work with will guide you through the process and help you make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

Home buying can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can reduce the stress of homebuying and enjoy the excitement of finding your dream home. Remember, this is a significant life event, and with the right guidance and support, you can make it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

Whether you’re looking for your starter home or forever home, S&A Homes offers a diverse selection of home designs to accommodate a variety of home buyers throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.

August 1, 2023
Budgeting for New Homeowners: What to Expect

Becoming a homeowner is such a rewarding moment, but it’s also a significant financial responsibility. Apart from paying for your mortgage, several expenses need to be factored into your budget to maintain and protect your property.

We’ll discuss some often-overlooked expenses you should include in your budget for the first year of homeownership. By understanding these costs, you can start planning and budgeting accordingly, ensuring you maintain your property and successfully navigate your first year as a homeowner.

Mortgage Payment

The first bill you’ll need to budget for is your mortgage payment. A mortgage payment is made up of four main parts: principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. The principal pays down your loan amount while interest covers the cost of borrowing, including your interest rate and remaining balance. The amount of interest you pay is determined by your interest rate and your loan balance.

Taxes and Insurance

The third component of your mortgage payment is taxes. Property taxes is one of the significant expenses that come with owning a home. Taxes are usually based on your home’s value, location, and local tax rates. These taxes can be due quarterly or annually, depending on where you live.

The final part of your mortgage payment includes insurance. Homeowners insurance is required to protect your property in case of theft, natural disasters, or accidents. The cost of your premium will vary depending on factors such as your location, the age of your home, and the level of coverage you want. Remember that insurance policies cover different types of losses, so make sure to read and understand the terms of your policy.

If your down payment was less than 20%, your lender may require private mortgage insurance (PMI). This insurance protects your lender in case you are unable to repay your mortgage. This amount is typically added to your mortgage payment.

You have two options for paying your property taxes and home insurance. The first option is to pay them yourself directly. You will need to figure out how much to set aside each month to cover these costs. The second option is to establish an escrow account with your lender to manage these payments. Each mortgage payment will add 1/12th of the total annual bill to cover these costs and will issue payment when they’re due.

Utilities

Utility bills such as electricity, water, and gas make up a significant portion of homeownership expenses. You should anticipate higher utility costs than when renting, especially if you have a larger home or more family members. When budgeting for your first year, take note of the average utility bills in your area and leave some cushion for fluctuations.

Home Maintenance and Repairs

As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to keep your property in good condition. This means setting aside money for routine maintenance and repairs like cleaning gutters, mowing the lawn, fixing a leaky faucet, and so on. You should also be prepared for unexpected repairs like a damaged roof or plumbing issues. A general rule of thumb is to set aside 1-2% of your home’s value for maintenance costs.

When you purchase a new home with S&A Homes, we provide our buyers an express 10-year limited warranty on their new home so you can enjoy peace of mind.

Homeowners Association Fees

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association (HOA), you will likely be required to pay a monthly or annual fee. These fees are used to maintain shared community areas, such as parks, playgrounds, and pools.

Home Improvement

Finally, while it may not be necessary in the first year, any home improvements, such as remodeling your kitchen or adding an extra bathroom, need to be included in your budget for the long term. These types of projects can be costly, so consider the costs, benefits, and long-term goals before making any home improvements. Setting aside money over time will make sure you have the funds available when it’s time for updates.

The first year of homeownership can be both exciting and challenging. However, it’s essential to understand that homeownership comes with financial responsibilities and costs. As a homeowner, you should be prepared to budget for the full cost of homeownership. These expenses can add up quickly, so it’s vital to plan accordingly and avoid financial surprises. With careful budgeting, you can manage these expenses stress-free and enjoy the benefits of homeownership.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We invite you to learn more about our new home opportunities, whether building on your lot or buying a home in one of our new home communities. Call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online to learn more about our available inventory and communities.

July 3, 2023
Wedding or New Home? Savings Tips for Both

Are you dreaming of both a perfect wedding and a new house to start your lives together, but feel overwhelmed by the idea of saving for both at the same time? Fear not! It’s completely possible, and we’re here to help you achieve both of those goals without sacrificing your financial stability. Read along as we guide you through some tips on how to save for both your dreams simultaneously.

Choose a priority

Planning a wedding and buying a house are both exciting, but before you start saving, it’s important to figure out what matters most to you and your partner. What’s your top priority? Are you both more excited about saying “I do” or putting down roots in a new home? And what percentage of your income are you willing to put towards these goals? If you both want a big blow out wedding, you should consider a longer timeline for buying a new home. If buying a new home is your priority, consider planning for a smaller, more intimate wedding or hosting a larger celebration later.

Start Saving Early

The key to successful money management for a home and a wedding is starting early. The earlier you begin, the longer you have to save for both dreams. Have a conversation with your partner about the timeline of your goals and how you both will achieve them together. How much house can you actually afford? And how much can you budget for the big day? Once you’re both are on the same page, you can make a plan to save for both dreams.

Work Out a Budget

It’s essential to be smart and realistic with your budget when saving for a new home and wedding. Determine how much you want to spend for each, and stick with it. Review your monthly expenses carefully and cut out the expenses that you can live without. Small changes like eating out less often or curbing your online shopping habit can add up over time and give you the extra savings that you need.

Maintain Separate Savings Accounts

Instead of having a single savings account, create a separate account for your wedding and home savings. This will allow you to track your progress towards each goal more effectively and prevent you from accidentally using money intended for one for the other.

Reduce Your Debt

While saving for a down payment and your upcoming wedding, it’s essential to keep a check on your outstanding debts. Work on paying off as much debt as possible and avoid taking on any new debts. Any outstanding monthly debts can hinder your savings aims, making money management for your upcoming wedding and home much more difficult.

Look for Savings Opportunities

Start looking into various cost-saving approaches that you can use to reduce your expenses. Consider having a smaller, more intimate wedding day or choosing a home in a more affordable location or with fewer amenities or bedrooms. Work with reputable vendors that fall within your budget and keep a lookout for sales on decor, wedding dresses, and suits that fit your budget.

Calculate Your Total Cost of Ownership

When it comes to purchasing a home, it’s vital to calculate your total cost of ownership. This includes the home price, mortgage interest, insurance, taxes, maintenance, utilities, and any other potential expenses that come with homeownership. This way, you can make an informed decision on how much house you can afford and avoid incurring unmanageable debt.

Saving for both a wedding and a home might seem like a daunting task, but it’s completely possible with some planning and budgeting. Remember, in several years, you’ll be looking back on your big day, and the day you bought your first home and any extra effort will be worth it.

New Construction Homes by S&A Homes

We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home. S&A Homes has a long history of building quality new construction homes in new home communities located in desirable neighborhoods throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Call 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com to learn more about our new home communities, floorplans, and more.

June 20, 2023
Helpful Tips for Selling a Home When You Have Pets

If you’re a pet-loving homeowner planning to sell your house, you might think that having your furry companions around would attract more buyers. However, having a pet isn’t actually a selling point. While the majority of buyers and sellers are pet owners, buyers want to envision themselves and their own furry friends in the home, not someone else’s.

So how can you showcase your home in the best possible way while still keeping your pets out of the picture? Check out these helpful tips for presenting your home in its most appealing light.

Declutter

One of the most crucial steps in preparing your home for sale as a pet owner is decluttering and deep cleaning. Get your home ready for potential buyers by decluttering and hiding any evidence of your pets. Put away litter boxes and half-chewed toys, move crates and beds out of sight, and stash food and water bowls in the back of your pantry. And don’t forget to ask your real estate photographer to do the same – you don’t want potential buyers to get distracted by pet accessories in your listing photos. Let your home shine and attract the right buyer by keeping it pet-free during showings.

Deep Clean

Whether you have pets or not, your home deserves a good deep clean. Over time, floors, baseboards, walls, and upholstery can be neglected. If you’re busy or need a little help, consider hiring a house cleaning service. Or, if you’re feeling industrious, roll up your sleeves and tackle pet stains and odors yourself. The Humane Society has some great pet-safe tips for removing pet odors and stains.

Be sure to give all your soft furnishings a thorough wash, including slipcovers, quilts, comforters, curtains, and throw pillows. And if you have carpets, invest in a professional steam clean before you start showing your home to remove any stains, hair, or lingering smells.

Eliminate Odors

Because we become used to how our homes smell, we may not notice a pet smell like someone walking into your home for the first time will. A dirty or smelly home is not very appealing to potential buyers. This isn’t something you should try “fixing” with just scented candles or fragranced air fresheners. Deep cleaning can remove a lot of unpleasant odors in soft textiles that could turn off a potential buyer. Replace furnace air filters and consider using an air purifier with HEPA filters to absorb particles that can lead to odors like pet dander and allergens. Between showings, use pet-specific deodorizers or enzyme cleaners to neutralize smells.

Repair Pet Damage

While pets bring joy and comfort, you may not notice the wear and tear they can leave behind. However, when it’s time to sell, even small damage can turn off potential buyers and make them question your property’s upkeep. Give your home a critical eye and seek out any damage your pet may have caused. Whether scratched floors or chewed curtains, it’s important to either repair or conceal these blemishes before opening your doors to visitors.

Check Your Backyard

If you have a dog, chances are you spend some time in your backyard. You should also assess your yard for damage. Fill any holes, repair garden damage, and get rid of any pet waste. This will boost your curb appeal and make your home a welcoming sight for potential buyers. If you have a fenced-in pet area, highlight it as a selling point to pet lovers. Just ensure it’s cleaned and safe for your furry friends and visitors alike.

Get Away on Showing Days

If you can, try to have a sitter or friend take your pets for the day when you have an open house or showing. This will ensure that your pets are safe and make your home more welcoming to potential buyers who may not be pet owners. You can take a walk with your dog and enjoy a day out and away from home, which can relax both you and your pets.

Selling a home as a pet owner can seem overwhelming but with these simple steps, it doesn’t have to be. By preparing your home for sale in advance, it is possible to minimize stress while keeping your furry friends happy. Remember that a clean, decluttered, and pet-proof home is more attractive to potential buyers. By following these tips, you can showcase your home’s best assets and ensure a smooth selling process.

We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to make the move into a new construction home. We’re proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We have floorplans for every stage in life, whether you purchase a home in one of our new home communities or build on your lot. To learn more about our available inventory and communities, call S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or contact us online.

June 6, 2023
Buying Again: Tips for Second-Time Homebuyers

Second-time homebuyers may find buying a home again can be a thrilling experience. With the lessons learned from the first time around, you can now make more informed decisions and choose a property that meets your particular needs. However, the process can still be overwhelming, especially with so many options available.

Whatever your reasons for making a repeat purchase, it’s important for second-time homebuyers to consider a few key factors before making your next move.

Work with an experienced loan officer

While you have navigated the homebuying process before, things have certainly changed since you last bought a home. One of the most obvious are home prices and mortgage rates have increased over the years. You may also run into different loan qualification requirements as well. An experienced loan officer will be able to explain these changes and provide insight into managing multiple transactions at once.

Save for the down payment

Saving for a down payment is a universal experience for all homebuyers. However, second-time homebuyers have a clear advantage: money from your first home sale can provide financial help. Whether it’s enough to cover the entire down payment or provide a good amount, knowing you’ll have this influx of cash available can be a big help.

Get preapproved for a loan

Preapproval is critical for second-time homebuyers. It gives you a clear understanding of what you can afford to spend on your new home. Prepare your financial documents, including your tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements, and then shop around for preapproval offers. Remember to compare lenders and select the one that offers the best terms and rates.

Consider your selling options

If you’re not keeping your current home as an investment property, you’ll need to buy and sell at the same time. Ideally, this process would be seamless however, the ups and downs of the real estate market mean that second-time homebuyers can find the process can be unpredictable. Maybe find your new home faster than expected or your buyer withdraws at the last moment. This can potentially mean carrying double mortgage payments, which can take a toll on your budget and finances.

If you’re not sure you want to risk carrying two mortgages, here are a couple of alternative options:

Sell first, then buy

Selling your home first allows you to use the proceeds of the sale towards your new home. You’ll have the luxury of time to review offers and negotiate the best option instead of rushing to close in a specific timeframe. However, this may require multiple moves as you’ll need an interim place to stay while looking for your new home. If your buyers have some flexibility, consider adding a rent-back agreement where you’ll pay the buyers rent for a month or two while finalizing the purchase of your new home.

Buy first, then sell

Buying first and then selling allows you to find the right home before leaving yours. You’ll only need to move once and may be able to slowly move items over. However, you may need to carry two mortgages for a short time. To mitigate the extra cost, you can make an offer that’s contingent on the sale of your home. If you’re certain your current home will sell quickly, you can also ask to push out the closing date of your new home. This will give you time to sell your home and recoup the proceeds that you can use towards the purchase of your new home.

Second-time homebuyer? Find a new home with S&A Homes

Buying a home for second-time homebuyers is an exciting opportunity to upgrade your living arrangements and invest in your future. With these tips in mind, you can confidently negotiate a deal that meets your budget and makes your dream home a reality.

To learn more about the new home process and new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania, contact S&A Homes at 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

May 30, 2023
A Beginner’s Guide to Mortgages
Buying a home is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming – especially when it comes to mortgages. Knowing all the details of mortgages can seem daunting, and it’s important to understand them before speaking to lenders or signing any contracts. Here is everything a first-time homebuyer needs to know about mortgages.

What is a mortgage?

A mortgage is a loan that you take out from a lender in order to purchase a home. Your interest rate is based on your credit score and financial history. This determines how much you must pay each month. Mortgages typically last for 15 or 30 years, depending on the loan agreement.

Different types of mortgages

There are two main categories of mortgages based on how the interest rates behave:
- A fixed-rate mortgage is a type of loan where the interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan. This means that your monthly payments will remain consistent, providing you with a sense of stability.
- An adjustable-rate mortgage may start with a lower interest rate, but the rate can change over time, which can cause your monthly payments to fluctuate.
Types of loan programs

There are several types of loan programs, which can either have fixed or adjustable rates. The most common loan types include:
- Conventional loans meet certain underwriting standards and follow specific rules set by the U.S. government but are not backed by the government like some of the other loan types. While there are different types of conventional loans, most require a credit score of at least 620 and a down payment of 3% or more. Conventional loans can be a good option for those who have strong credit but don’t necessarily qualify for other types of loans, like FHA or VA loans.
- FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. These loans are beneficial for first-time homebuyers who may not have substantial savings for a down payment. FHA loans require a lower down payment than conventional loans and often have lower credit score requirements.
- A VA loan is a special type of mortgage available to veterans and military service members and some surviving spouses. These loans are backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and offer competitive interest rates and no down payment requirements.
- USDA loan is a loan that is guaranteed by the US Department of Agriculture and is available to people in rural areas who meet certain income requirements.
Each type of loan has its own rates, qualifications, and terms. It’s important to research each one thoroughly to make sure it fits your budget and lifestyle.

What a mortgage payment includes

Mortgage payments are a large commitment and understanding what exactly is included in them each month can seem daunting. Every payment you make on your mortgage involves some combination of the amount owed, interest charges, and other costs – all designed to help get that dream home paid off over time.
- Principal: the principal means two things. First, it denotes the original amount you borrow. Second, it refers to the amount still owed after each payment.
- Interest: this is the amount you pay your lender for providing your mortgage. Part of your mortgage payment will go towards interest.
- Property taxes: your lender may collect part of your property tax bill each month and set it aside in an escrow account to pay your annual property tax. If they don’t offer this, then you’ll be responsible for paying your property tax.
- Homeowners insurance: homeowners insurance provides financial protection against unexpected catastrophes like fires, storms, and accidents. Many lenders require it as part of a mortgage agreement. Some may tuck it away as a portion of each payment into an escrow account so that when premiums are due, they’ll be handled without any hassle on your end.
- Mortgage insurance: if your down payment is less than 20%, you may have to pay for mortgage insurance. This helps protect your lender from a potential default on the loan and comes in two forms: private mortgage insurance (PMI) for conventional loans or FHA mortgage insurance for loans backed by the FHA. PMI can eventually be canceled when your home equity increases while FHA has its own set of conditions that can last throughout the life of the loan.
Finding the right lender

When it comes time to apply for a mortgage, the most important step is finding the right lender. It’s essential to shop around and compare various lenders’ interest rates, fees, and repayment terms before making any decisions. If you’re working with a new home builder, it may be worth checking to see if they have preferred lenders. These lenders have a working relationship with specific builders and can streamline the financing process.

Qualifying for a mortgage

In order to qualify for a mortgage, you need excellent credit, stable employment history and proof that you can repay the loan over time. The lender will look at your income level, debt-to-income ratio, savings history, job stability and other factors as part of their due diligence process. They may also require additional documentation such as tax returns or bank statements.

Applying for your loan

Once you have chosen the right lender and determined which type of loan best suits your needs – it’s time to apply! The application process usually involves filling out some paperwork and submitting documents such as pay stubs or tax forms that show proof of income. Pay off prior debts before applying. This could result in lower interest rates or better terms overall.

Understanding all aspects of financing can seem intimidating at first glance! Be sure that you do thorough research when looking into all types of mortgages so that you get one that fits both present-day needs as well as long-term goals like retirement plans or future investments in mind.

Partner with S&A Homes

We know there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution, especially when it comes to financing your home. That’s why we partner with a variety of lenders and banks to ensure that we are able to offer loan programs that are specifically tailored to each purchaser’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about our home financing solutions.

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. We can also build your dream home on your own land! For more details, visit www.sahomebuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHOME1.
May 16, 2023
Starter vs. Forever Home: Making the Right Choice

Buying a home is a major investment, and it’s one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. It’s important to choose a home that fits your needs and lifestyle, but it can be tough to decide how much space you really need. Should you choose a starter home, or invest in a forever home? Let’s explore the important considerations you’ll need to think over so you can make the best decision for you.

What is a starter home?

Starter homes are typically modest homes that first-time home buyers can afford but expect to outgrow. Most home buyers looking for starter homes prioritize a more affordable mortgage over finding a home that has everything they need and want right now. They look for entry-level homes that meet their basic needs and are okay that they don’t feature every dream amenity.

Homebuyers with limited budgets may choose to invest in a starter home to build equity as a homeowner they can eventually use to purchase their forever home.

What is a forever home?

A forever home is a home you plan on living in for a long time, possibly for the rest of your life. These homes tend to be larger to accommodate a growing family with more amenities or have potential for improvements to make it just right. Since these homes are larger and have more amenities, they tend to be more expensive than starter homes.

Starter Home vs Forever Home: Top Considerations

Still not sure which style is right for you? Here are some considerations you make to decide which one is right for you now.

Review your finances

Price, down payment size, and loan terms are all important factors to consider when deciding between a starter and forever home. A starter home is typically more affordable, which can be a major advantage for first-time homeowners. However, you may outgrow a starter home more quickly and need to move sooner than you would with a forever home. A forever home, on the other hand, requires a larger down payment and often comes with a larger mortgage payment. However, in the long run, it could save you money as you won’t need to move again.

Assess your lifestyle

Assessing your current lifestyle and needs is an important step to making the right choice when it comes to starter versus forever homes. If you have a growing family or plan to have children in the future, a forever home might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re single or newlyweds, a starter home could be the perfect fit. It’s important to consider your current and future needs in terms of space, flexibility, and overall lifestyle.

Evaluate your future plans

While it can be tough to predict the future, it’s important to consider potential changes in your life that could impact your home buying decision. Will you be changing jobs, having children, or starting a business? If so, a forever home might be a better choice, as it provides more space and flexibility. On the other hand, if you plan to downsize in the future, a starter home might be more practical.

Keep ‘forever’ in perspective

Remember that forever is an elusive target. Even with a well-conceived plan, life brings changes. Families grow and shrink, jobs change, unexpected opportunities appear. Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect home and look for one that’s good enough to meet your needs for the long-term.

A starter home can also be a forever home. Some buyers purchase starter homes with the intent of upgrading to a larger home sometime in the future while others may end up happily living in their ‘starter homes’ forever.

Which home is right for your life now?

Choosing between a starter and forever home can be a tough decision, but ultimately it comes down to your lifestyle, future plans, and financial considerations. A starter home can be a great option for first-time homebuyers, while a forever home may be more practical for growing families or those who plan to live in the same home for many years. No matter which option you choose, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved and make a decision that works for you.

Whether you’re looking for your starter home or forever home, S&A Homes offers a diverse selection of home designs to accommodate a variety of home buyers throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about new home opportunities from S&A Homes, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.

April 18, 2023
Important Questions to Ask Partner Before Buying a Home

Purchasing a home with a partner is one of the biggest milestones you can reach in life. After all, a home is not just a physical space, but also a reflection of your lifestyle and aspirations. Whether you’re buying your first or second home, or maybe just making an investment purchase, it’s not something to take lightly. Here are some important questions to ask to make sure everyone is on the same page and has the same expectations so the home buying process is both enjoyable and successful.

Why are we buying a home?

What is your motivation for buying a new home? Is it because that’s the next step? Because everyone else you know is buying? A mortgage is a long-term financial commitment. There should be a lot of careful consideration made before taking this step. Be honest with your reasons for wanting to buy and be prepared to talk it through with your partner.

How are our finances?

Discussing money can get tricky. Since there are a lot of financial responsibilities that come with buying a home, this conversation is unavoidable. You want to make sure your finances can manage a major expense. You will need to be upfront and lay out all the details: discuss your income, current expenses, credit score, and all of your debt. This is the same information mortgage companies will assess when reviewing your mortgage application so it’s worth being candid now to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

What can we afford and how will we pay for it?

When it comes to buying a home, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you can afford. Mortgage pre-approvals are helpful but base your buying budget on just that. Owning a home is more than just the mortgage payment: there are also utility bills, maintenance and repairs, property tax, and insurance. Carefully review your income and expenses (including any debt) and calculate how much you can comfortably afford, including how you’ll save for the down payment.

You should also discuss how housing expenses will be split. There isn’t one right way to split expenses – whether it’s 50-50 or a proportion based on income. Just make it clear from the beginning and have ongoing conversations to make adjustments as financial circumstances change.

Where do we want to live?

As you start building a life with someone, an important question to consider is where you both see yourselves being the happiest. This conversation can reveal a lot about your priorities and values as a couple. Perhaps you both love the bustling lifestyle of the city and can’t imagine living anywhere else or maybe you’re both drawn to the calmness and greenery of the suburbs. It’s important to uncover these preferences early on, even if it causes a slight contention.

What do we want in our new home?

When searching for a new home, it’s important to recognize that you and your partner may have vastly different priorities when it comes to what you want in a home. You may be dreaming of a spacious living room that can comfortably host all of your friends and family, while your partner might have their heart set on a luxurious, state-of-the-art kitchen. Taking the time to sit down and separately list out what each of you values in a home can be a great exercise in compromise. By comparing your lists and boiling them down to the essentials, you can identify deal-breakers and areas where you’re willing to compromise. Ultimately, this process can help you find a home that truly meets both your needs and desires.

What happens if we break up?

Talking about the end of a relationship can be uncomfortable and emotional, but it is an important conversation to have if you are considering purchasing a home together. Life is unpredictable, and even the strongest relationships can face unexpected challenges. It is essential to speak with a legal advisor to understand the complexities and potential consequences if you are unmarried, but married couples shouldn’t ignore this step either. Developing a house ownership agreement can help you address crucial details upfront, such as how you will split costs, allocate ownership percentages, deal with disputes, or handle a breakup or death. While you may never need to use this agreement, it’s reassuring to know that you have a plan in place.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments that you will make with your partner, so it’s important to navigate the process with mutual respect and open communication. We hope you’ll consider S&A Homes when you’re ready to buy a new construction home. To learn more about our amazing new home opportunities where we build in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania, including build on your lot and quick-move in homes, call 1-855-SAHOME1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

April 4, 2023